Name: Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced); 2 cups broccoli florets; 10 oz rotini or other short pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1/2 lemon

Creamy, hearty, and irresistibly satisfying, Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a comforting dish that brings together tender grilled chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and perfectly al dente pasta all coated in a rich, savory cream sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing—perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

The combination of seasoned chicken, fresh greens, and a luscious sauce makes this pasta a balanced favorite across households. It’s quick to pull together, yet feels like something you’d happily order from a cozy Italian bistro. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this dish checks all the right boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Comfort food with a healthy twist: Lean chicken breast and fiber-rich broccoli pack this dish with nutrients.
Ready in under 30 minutes: Ideal for busy nights when you want something delicious without the wait.
Family-friendly: Both kids and adults love the creamy, cheesy pasta base.
Versatile and customizable: Swap in different pasta shapes or add extra veggies if you like.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

To create the perfect Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, you don’t need a professional kitchen—just a few reliable tools that make the process smoother and the results tastier:

Large Pot: For boiling pasta and blanching the broccoli. A deep, wide pot prevents overcrowding and allows even cooking.
Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Used to sear the chicken and later combine everything in the creamy sauce. Choose one with a lid if you want to simmer gently.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing chicken breasts evenly and chopping broccoli into bite-sized florets.
Cutting Board: Use separate boards for raw meat and vegetables to maintain food safety.
Colander: For draining pasta and broccoli efficiently.
Tongs or Spatula: Helps flip chicken pieces evenly without tearing them.
Grater or Microplane: For shredding Parmesan cheese fresh, which melts better and has more flavor.

Each tool plays a crucial role in both prep and cooking—minimizing mess and enhancing the end result.

Preparation Tips

Chicken Slicing: Slice chicken breasts thinly for quicker, more even cooking. You can also butterfly them if they’re particularly thick.
Broccoli Blanching: Add the broccoli to the boiling pasta during the last 2–3 minutes of cook time. This keeps it bright green and just tender.
Pasta Timing: Cook pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed into the sauce.
Creamy Sauce Tip: Don’t let the cream boil—simmer gently to avoid curdling and to keep the sauce smooth.
Season As You Go: Layer flavors by seasoning the chicken, pasta water, and sauce separately rather than relying on one final seasoning.

Ingredients for This Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this creamy, comforting pasta dish together:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – thinly sliced or cut into bite-sized strips
2 cups broccoli florets – fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch
10 oz (about 3 cups) rotini or your favorite pasta – fusilli, penne, or farfalle also work well
2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the chicken
3 cloves garlic, minced – adds depth and aroma
1 cup heavy cream – the base of the luscious sauce
½ cup chicken broth – adds savory richness and helps balance the cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – for sharp, nutty flavor
½ teaspoon salt – adjust to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper – for subtle heat
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a touch of spice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – for a pop of color and freshness
Juice of ½ lemon – brightens the whole dish

These simple, wholesome ingredients come together in a way that’s greater than the sum of their parts. Freshness and quality make a noticeable difference, so go for good Parmesan and fresh garlic when you can.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until just al dente. During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets. Once done, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer—do not boil. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. Season with more salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to warm through. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the pasta warm, ensuring each serving has plenty of chicken and broccoli. Top with extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that don’t melt smoothly. Freshly grated Parmesan ensures a creamier sauce.
Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or a bit more chicken broth to loosen it up.
Cream Substitute: You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter version, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.
Make It Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
Pasta Alternatives: Gluten-free or whole wheat pasta work just as well if you’re adapting for dietary needs.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Chicken: Thin chicken slices cook quickly—watch them closely to avoid dryness.
Boiling the Cream: Let the sauce simmer gently. A hard boil can cause the cream to separate or become grainy.
Skipping Pasta Water: Always reserve some before draining—it’s liquid gold for thinning out and emulsifying sauces.
Crowding the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to ensure a golden, even sear.
Undercooked Broccoli: Blanching with the pasta helps ensure it’s tender but still vibrant. Too little time can leave it overly firm.

What to Serve With Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

This creamy pasta stands strong on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn a simple dinner into a full-course meal. Here are eight fantastic recommendations to serve alongside:

8 Recommendations

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks
Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Simple Caesar Salad
The crispness of romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons add balance and freshness.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Their sweet acidity offers a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
Lemon-Herb Asparagus
Light and zesty, asparagus complements the broccoli without overpowering.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic makes a light and bright side.
Grilled Zucchini
Another veggie-forward option that’s easy to prep and serves well hot or room temperature.
Bruschetta
Toasted bread topped with a mix of diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil for a fresh appetizer.
White Wine or Sparkling Water with Lemon
Drink pairings like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or citrusy sparkling water keep the palate refreshed.

Storage Instructions

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta stores beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwaving is fine too—just stir halfway through to distribute heat evenly.
Freezing: Not recommended. The cream sauce may separate and become grainy after thawing.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Calories: ~620 kcal
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 540mg
Cholesterol: 120mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on specific brands and ingredient types used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well—just add it directly to the boiling pasta a minute or two earlier than you would fresh to ensure it softens completely.

2. What other pasta shapes can I use?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work great. Just avoid long noodles like spaghetti, which don’t hold the sauce as effectively.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Cook everything and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to revive the creamy texture.

4. Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta and checking that the broth and cheese are gluten-free.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or peas make great additions and boost the nutrient profile.

6. How do I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne, or even a spoon of chili paste to the sauce to heat things up.

7. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Using pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie can save time—just shred it and add it in when combining everything at the end.

8. What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

Add a bit of reserved pasta water or chicken broth to thin it out gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the kind of dish that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity together in one bowl. With its creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and vibrant green broccoli, it’s a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a family favorite that can be made in under 30 minutes, this recipe delivers every time.

Now that you know the ins and outs—from tools to tweaks—you’re set to make this dish a regular part of your meal rotation. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!